The event is designed to give vending industry members the opportunity to meet and chat with their elected officials. To that end, since parking space at the capitol building is limited, participants will assemble at the Hampton Inn on Lonnbladh Road at 6:30 a.m. for a caravan to the capitol. Valid photographic identification will be required to gain admission.

AMAF has arranged for space on the 22nd floor of the capitol between 7 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.; the caravan travelers will meet there for a short briefing. They then will divide into teams to visit legislators and deliver goody-bags and express their views on matters of current concern.

The association has reserved a small block of rooms at the Hampton Inn. Those desiring to stay overnight may call (850) 574-4900 and mention that they are associated with AMAF. A special room rate is available for reservations made by Feb. 22.

"Remember, a united effort has a greater impact than one individual voice," the association reminds members. "Please let us know if you will attend and how many people you will be bringing with you."

Information can be had from Sheree Edwards, National Automatic Merchandising Association regional legislative director, at sedwards@vending.org; Mary Lou Monaghan, NAMA senior manager of government affairs, at mmonaghan@vending.org; or AMAF president Bill Baker at (727) 423-5008.

The Automatic Merchandising Association of Florida is a NAMA state council.